Emma Ridge can’t wait to serve as Secretary of the Volusia Young Democrats, where she will bring her sharp attention to detail and strong organizational skills to the table. A professional stenographer by trade, she’s no stranger to fast-paced environments and accurate record-keeping. ​When she’s not advocating for progressive change in her community, she enjoys traveling to new places and unwinding with a good TV binge.

Lauren is our VYD Communications Officer for 2025! Her day job consists of auditing, but outside of work, you'll usually find her planning her next international travel adventure, working up a sweat at Orangetheory, cooking up a masterpiece in the kitchen, training for her next half marathon, or spending time with her dog, Wrigley, who's named after Wrigley Field in Chicago because she is a HUGE Cubs fan! With a passion for clear, effective communication, she looks forward to keeping our members informed and engaged!

Rakeem Ford serves as the Fundraising and Development Officer for the Volusia County Young Democrats, bringing passion and strategy to building the financial foundation for local political change. A graduate of Florida A&M University with both a B.S. in Business Administration and an MBA, he works as a grant manager for a national nonprofit focused on clean water and environmental justice. Rakeem is also the youngest and first Gen Z appointee to the West Volusia Hospital Authority, where he serves as a County Commissioner. His leadership is rooted in uplifting underserved communities and empowering the next generation through civic engagement and inclusive development.